Birds Surveys

We can provide the whole range of bird surveys across the UK, and have vast project experience on a commercial and domestic scale. We are experienced in obtaining and implementing for works affecting this species, such as ground clearance and windfarm works.

Contact us to discuss your project.

Survey Inventory

1. Our Services

2. Background Information

3. Barn Owl Surveys

4. Additional Services

Our Services

Access Ecology’s highly experienced staff can provide tailored bird surveys to suit the requirements of any project on any site using any of the standard practices;

Nesting bird surveys consist of a walkover of the area or inspection of the building, structure or tree to be disturbed to identify evidence of nesting birds.

Breeding bird surveys for larger developments involve transect surveys of a site throughout the breeding season (March to July inclusive for summer breeding birds and September to March inclusive for wintering breeding birds) combining methods from the national Common bird census (CBC) and Breeding bird surveys (BBS).

Vantage Point Surveys are employed most commonly for wind farm developments to quantify flight activity of birds of conservation importance over a wide area.

The results will inform a survey report of our findings which is suitable for submission to the local planning authority. Our report will include suitable site specific recommendations including whether a European Protected Species Licence is required for the development to continue.

Background Information

The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) is the principal legislation affording protection to UK wild birds. Under this legislation all birds, their nests and eggs are protected by law.

Certain species are listed on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), making it an offence to intentionally or recklessly disturb the adults whilst they are in or around their nest or recklessly disturb their dependant young. Schedule 1 listed species include the Kingfisher, black redstart, red kite, barn owl and many others which are considered to be higher nature conservation priorities. If a project is likely to disturb any schedule 1 listed birds or their nests then a licence will need to be obtained from Natural England before works can commence.

Barn Owl Surveys

Barn Owl surveys involve searching for a roost or signs of a roost within a barn or other building or structure. Because barn owls are included in Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 they receive increased protection, therefore our ecologists hold licences allowing them to survey for barn owls as they are qualified to carry out activities in a conscientious manner, avoiding unnecessary disturbance.

Barn Owl surveys can be undertaken at any time of year and one survey is usually sufficient to indicate whether or not they are present.

If a barn owl roost is found within a building or structure a licence will need to be obtained from Natural England before any works can be undertaken.

Additional Services

In addition to surveys, Access Ecology can offer the following services in relation to birds;